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Worker voice and algorithmic management in post-Brexit Britain

Author

Listed:
  • Philippa Collins

    (University of Bristol, UK)

  • Joe Atkinson

    (University of Sheffield, UK)

Abstract

In this article, we consider the legal frameworks that enable workers to influence the deployment of new workplace technologies in the United Kingdom and the future of worker voice and algorithmic management in a post-Brexit Britain. The article demonstrates how the legal mechanisms that facilitate voice at work, primarily collective bargaining via trade unions, can be leveraged to influence employers’ choices regarding algorithmic management. However, it also identifies both familiar and novel challenges regarding using these routes to ‘negotiate the algorithm’. The article then outlines major regulatory proposals emerging from the EU that would establish greater co-determination in this context and assesses their relevance to the UK labour market. It concludes by considering whether specific regulatory measures are necessary in the UK context to enhance the exercise of worker voice regarding the deployment of algorithmic management and close the widening gap between the position of UK and EU workers.

Suggested Citation

  • Philippa Collins & Joe Atkinson, 2023. "Worker voice and algorithmic management in post-Brexit Britain," Transfer: European Review of Labour and Research, , vol. 29(1), pages 37-52, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:treure:v:29:y:2023:i:1:p:37-52
    DOI: 10.1177/10242589221143068
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    2. Rolf, Steven & O'Reilly, Jacqueline & Meryon, Marc, 2022. "Towards privatized social and employment protections in the platform economy? Evidence from the UK courier sector," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 51(5).
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    Cited by:

    1. Valerio De Stefano & Simon Taes, 2023. "Algorithmic management and collective bargaining," Transfer: European Review of Labour and Research, , vol. 29(1), pages 21-36, February.
    2. Valerio De Stefano & Virginia Doellgast, 2023. "Introduction to the Transfer special issue. Regulating AI at work: labour relations, automation, and algorithmic management," Transfer: European Review of Labour and Research, , vol. 29(1), pages 9-20, February.
    3. Kristin Jesnes, 2023. "Shifting gears: how platform companies maintain power in app-based food delivery in Norway," Transfer: European Review of Labour and Research, , vol. 29(4), pages 507-524, November.

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